Unit 4E: Cyber/Digital Literacy

A. Unit Overview
In the 21st century, digital literacy is an essential skill not only for students but especially for
teachers who must serve as guides and role models in a technologically driven world. This unit
equips Pre-Service Teachers (PSTs) with the understanding, ethical awareness, and technical
competencies to use digital tools responsibly and effectively. It fosters awareness of digital issues
such as internet safety, cyber ethics, cybercrimes, and effective use of online information and
platforms. By the end of the unit, PSTs will be able to:
a. Examine the ethical considerations of using digital media.
b. Demonstrate skills in the positive use of Information and Communication Technology
(ICT).
c. Evaluate cyber threats, real-world cases, and media content critically and responsibly.
B. Core Topics and Discussions
1. Cybercitizenship in the Digital Age
Cybercitizenship refers to the responsible use of digital technologies to interact with the
online world. It includes understanding one's rights and responsibilities in digital environments,
similar to how one functions in a physical society.
A good cybercitizen respects others' privacy, communicates with courtesy, and avoids
actions that harm others online. For example, when commenting on a public social media post, a
cybercitizen offers constructive feedback rather than insulting or shaming the author.
Cybercitizenship also means understanding digital rights such as freedom of expression and access
to information and balancing these with responsibilities such as avoiding plagiarism and respecting
copyright.
In schools, PSTs must be prepared to teach students about concepts such as “netiquette” or
online etiquette. For instance, students should be taught to avoid using all capital letters in
messages (which can be interpreted as shouting), and to cite their sources when using online
materials in assignments or presentations.
2. Internet Safety
Internet safety is the practice of protecting oneself and others from dangers while using the
internet. This includes safeguarding personal data, avoiding malicious websites, and practicing
secure browsing habits.
For example, using a password like “123456” or “password” makes accounts vulnerable to
hacking. A secure password uses a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and
symbols. Moreover, internet safety involves recognizing whether a website is secure—usually
indicated by a padlock icon and “https” in the web address.
Another essential internet safety habit is being skeptical of emails from unknown senders.
Many cybercriminals use phishing emails to trick people into clicking links that install malware
or steal login information. PSTs must teach students never to share personal details—such as home
addresses, school names, or mobile numbers—on online platforms that are not secure.

3. Cyberbullying and Cybercrimes

Cyberbullying is the act of using digital technology to harm or intimidate others. This can
take the form of mean messages, spreading false rumors, sharing embarrassing photos without
consent, or creating fake online profiles to harass a person.
An example of cyberbullying might be when a student creates a meme mocking a classmate
and shares it in a group chat. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen at any time
and often involves a wider audience, making the impact on the victim more severe. Teachers must
be alert to these incidents and respond swiftly by reporting them to appropriate authorities,
involving guidance counselors, and facilitating discussions about empathy and online respect.
Cybercrimes refer to illegal acts committed using digital technology. These include identity
theft, hacking, online scams, and digital piracy. In the Philippines, cybercrimes are punishable
under Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. For example, if a student
accesses a teacher’s account without permission and deletes important files, it may be considered
a criminal act under this law.
Teachers must not only understand cyber laws but also educate students about the legal
consequences of inappropriate online behavior.

4. Managing Computer Threats

Computer threats are dangers that can compromise the functionality, security, or data of a
computer system. These threats include viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and ransomware. For
instance, if a user downloads a game from an unofficial website, they might unknowingly install a
virus that damages their files or tracks their keystrokes.
Viruses are malicious programs that can replicate and spread, while ransomware can lock
users out of their devices until they pay a ransom. In 2017, the global ransomware attack
"WannaCry" shut down systems in hospitals and schools, showing how serious such threats can
be.
To manage computer threats, users should install antivirus software, regularly update their
operating systems, avoid suspicious downloads, and back up important data. PSTs should also
teach students to avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi, especially when logging into email
or school portals.
5. Researching and Evaluating the Web
The internet offers a vast amount of information, but not all of it is accurate, credible, or
ethical. PSTs must be able to research topics online and critically evaluate websites and digital
content for reliability.
A useful method for evaluation is the CRAAP test, which stands for Currency (Is the
information recent?), Relevance (Is it related to your topic?), Authority (Who is the author?),
Accuracy (Is it supported by evidence?), and Purpose (Is it fact or opinion?).
For example, when preparing a lesson on climate change, a teacher should prioritize
information from scientific organizations such as NASA or the UN, rather than an unverified blog
or social media post. Moreover, students should be taught to distinguish between factual news and
misinformation. A post claiming that a celebrity has died should be verified with trusted news
sources before being believed or shared.
Proper citation is also critical. Students should be trained to avoid plagiarism by
acknowledging the authors of online content using citation formats such as APA or MLA.

6. Social Media Use

Social media platforms offer powerful tools for communication, collaboration, and
personal expression. However, they must be used responsibly, especially by educators and
students.
For instance, teachers can use Facebook groups to post announcements or share educational
videos. LinkedIn can be used to build professional networks. However, PSTs should be mindful of
what they post on personal accounts. Posting inappropriate photos or political rants can damage
one’s professional reputation.
Another important concept is the "digital footprint," which refers to all the data a person
leaves behind online, including posts, comments, and search history. PSTs must be aware that
employers and institutions may search their online profiles during hiring or application processes.
Students should be reminded that what they share online—whether positive or negative—
can be permanent and far-reaching. Teachers should lead discussions on how to protect privacy
and maintain respectful digital communication.
7. Mobile Devices
Mobile devices like smartphones and tablets are indispensable tools in education when
used effectively. These devices allow for flexible learning through access to online materials,
educational apps, and collaboration platforms.
For example, a PST might use a tablet to access Google Classroom, share instructional videos, or
take notes using digital apps like Notion. However, these devices can also cause distraction if not
regulated. A student using a mobile phone during class might be tempted to play games or scroll
through social media instead of paying attention.
To promote responsible use, teachers should establish clear rules regarding device use in
class. Features such as screen time trackers, parental controls, and app permission settings can help
manage mobile use. It is also important to teach students about mobile security, such as using
biometric locks and disabling location sharing when unnecessary.

8. Digital Traits
To be considered digitally literate, a person must embody several positive digital traits.
These include critical thinking, ethical behavior, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to
lifelong learning.
Critical thinking allows individuals to analyze digital content and identify misinformation
or bias. For example, when encountering a viral post about a health cure, a critical thinker would
investigate its sources before accepting it as true.
Ethical digital users respect copyright laws and avoid downloading pirated materials. They
credit sources, protect others' privacy, and refrain from engaging in cyberbullying.
Collaborative learners use technology to work with others through tools like Google Docs
or Zoom. Innovative users apply digital tools creatively—perhaps designing an interactive
presentation or integrating virtual simulations in a lesson.
Finally, lifelong learners understand that technology evolves rapidly. PSTs should be committed
to continuously improving their digital skills to stay current and relevant in their teaching practices.

C. Summary and Reflection

Digital literacy is a comprehensive and dynamic skill set that empowers individuals to use
technology responsibly, safely, and creatively. As future educators, PSTs have a dual responsibility:
to model responsible digital behavior and to educate their students about the ethical and effective
use of digital tools.
Examining ethical considerations, practicing safe and positive ICT use, and understanding the
nature of digital threats and responsibilities, PSTs can become strong advocates of digital literacy
in their communities. In doing so, they contribute to building a generation of students who are not
only competent users of technology but also thoughtful, respectful, and ethical digital citizens.